Pearl Harbor

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Pearl Harbor: Tours & Tickets

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Remembering Pearl Harbor in 5 facts

The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was the 9/11 of its day, remembered as a defining moment of the Second World War. But Pearl Harbor is about much more than its most tragic moment. Here's a brief history to prepare you for your tour!

  • It was once a sacred site

    1. It was once a sacred site

    The large bay was originally called Wai Momi, or "Waters of Pearl." According to Hawaiian legend, it's home to the shark goddess, Kaʻahupahau.

  • It's been expanded twice

    2. It's been expanded twice

    First by the Ewa chief, Keaunui, who reshaped the estuary to make it accessible. Then, in 1869, the US deepened the waters leading into the harbor while Hawaii was still a kingdom.

  • Hawaii wasn't part of the US when it was attacked

    3. Hawaii wasn't part of the US when it was attacked

    The kingdom made way for the Republic of Hawaii in 1893, which let the US establish a naval base at the harbor six years later. It didn't become the 50th state until 1959!

  • A surprising excuse for incompetence?

    4. A surprising excuse for incompetence?

    US intelligence is rumored to have expected the "surprise" attack, but either way, the naval base was woefully unequipped to defend against any kind of air-raid.

  • It's still an operational naval base

    5. It's still an operational naval base

    The Pearl Harbor attacks killed 2,403 Americans and Hawaiians, and sunk much of the US' naval might. Defiantly, it's still home to the bigger-than-ever US Pacific Fleet!

Planning Your Visit

  • What are the opening times?

    The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is open daily from 7:00AM to 5:00PM, except for Thanksgiving Day, December 25th, and January 1st. Expect it to be busy at any time! If travelling on a budget then arrive early to snap up one of the free walk-in tickets, otherwise it's recommended that you book in advance!

  • How to get there?

    Pearl Harbor can be accessed by City Bus and taxi, but the former is slow (up to 2 hours) and the latter expensive. Many cheap, quick transportation services don't have clearance to the tourist site itself, so the best way to reach Pearl Harbor is undoubtedly with a certified tour company.

Good to know

  • When should I visit?
    Open daily, 7:00 AM-5:00 PM
    Holiday hours may vary
  • Is it expensive?
    Walk-in tickets are free, but best to guarantee access by purchasing an all-inclusive tour package.
  • Will I need a guide?
    It will definitely help.
  • How to get there
    Best to go in a private van with a tour company.
  • Additional information
    Get out your fanny pack! Backpacks and other large bags must be checked at the storage area.

What people are saying about Pearl Harbor

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 399 reviews

Don’t use the go Oahu pass at Pearl Harbor things. They aren’t very expensive to do the extra tours and getting in the park is actually free. Use your pass on things that would cost a lot to do, like the Polynesian Cultural Center. We mistakenly paid full price for that not realizing it was included, and saved it for Pearl Harbor and that was barely any cost.

Go Oahu® Card: Save Up to 55% on Top Attractions Reviewed by Anonymous, 3/5/2021

Helpful?

Sarah, our pilot was fantastic! She went over everything with us and we had a fantastic time! I highly recommend the 60 minute tour! The whole crew was wonderful! I will be recommending them to everyone I know coming to Oahu!

Oahu 60-Minute Helicopter Tour: Doors On or Off Reviewed by Anonymous, 4/14/2021

Helpful?

The brochure listed a short video presentation before going out to the memorial but, there was no video presentation. Daniel and crew were super nice and very responsive.....also they were easily accessible.

Waikiki: Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour Reviewed by Shelly, 3/24/2021

Helpful?

Kentucky was a wonderful, patient guide. He gave us a lot of time to enjoy all of our sights. He was so informative and friendly. I will call him to be our guide, if I get a choice, for future excursions.

Waikiki: Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour Reviewed by Ellen, 4/20/2021

Helpful?

Lots of fun! Joey the guide was great! I would recommend not trying to take pictures/ videos with the doors off! Too windy or maybe I’m just not skilled enough with using my phone! I enjoyed it very much!

Oahu 60-Minute Helicopter Tour: Doors On or Off Reviewed by Anonymous, 3/2/2021

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